Kane resigns from post as state representative
Date: 6/13/2012
June 13, 2012By Katelyn Gendron
katelyn@thereminder.comHOLYOKE — State Rep. Michael Kane may be moving on to a life in the private sector but he assured that constituents would still receive essential services.
Kane, who announced his resignation from the House on June 8 to take a position as director of Government Affairs with Columbia Gas on June 11, told
Reminder Publications his support staff would remain at his offices throughout the remainder of his term and State Sen. Michael Knapik would represent Holyoke's needs in the Legislature.
"I've been working closely with Sen. Mike Knapik and the senator is going to work, as he always does, to provide quality constituent service," Kane said.
When asked why he chose to take the job with Columbia Gas, he replied, "I formally served as vice chair of the Telecommunication, Utilities and Energy Joint Committee so this is my background.
"It's a homerun for me. Timing could never be perfect but this was definitely the right place, right time. It's absolutely bittersweet but I'm very excited about joining this successful company," Kane continued.
"We are very excited that Michael is joining Columbia Gas. In his 16 years of public service he has earned the respect and solid reputation for high quality service and advocacy on behalf of his constituents. Those qualities will make him a great fit at Columbia Gas and support our mission to provide outstanding service to our customers and the communities we serve," Steve Bryant, president of Columbia Gas, said.
Kane's name will still appear on the Sept. 6 primary election ballot against Democrat City Councilor Aaron Vega, as he had submitted his papers for re-election prior to gaining employment with Columbia Gas.
